A young man, eager to create a brighter future for himself and his family, tragically lost his life in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning. Isei Tamanikalou, a 21-year-old from Matanagata in Vatukoula, had plans to return to Fiji National University to study engineering.
According to police, he was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man that crashed along Kings Road in Naviyago, just outside Lautoka. His grandparents, still reeling from his untimely death, described Mr. Tamanikalou as a bright and promising individual with a big heart, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, is struggling with the immense sadness of his loss. She remembered their last interaction, which occurred just hours before the accident. “We had just returned from church, and he told me he was going to Matanagata to visit friends,” she shared. “He had so many friends in the village and loved spending time with them.” That would be the last time she saw him.
“He was such a good boy. Always shy and quiet, but with so much love in his heart,” said his grandfather, Epitani Tabua. “He was always happy-go-lucky and well-liked by everyone. He enjoyed helping around the house and never asked for much.”
Recently, Mr. Tamanikalou had completed a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family was excited about his future. “He was eager to return to university and told me he was determined to build a better life for himself. He was so focused on achieving that goal,” Mr. Tabua said.
One of the most significant relationships in Mr. Tamanikalou’s life was with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who had adopted him as a child. “He always called him ‘dad’ because of their strong connection. They shared a very special bond,” Mr. Tabua explained. “Isei was too young. He had his whole life ahead of him, and it’s so hard to accept that he’s gone.”
The police investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.